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Our West African Trips:
The trip descriptions & itineraries you see on this page serve as examples of some of the best activities and destinations in each country we serve. We do our best at custom-designing trips to our clients' specifications. Prices are subject to change according to Euro-USD exchange rates and unforseen changes in the rates we're charged in-country.
NOTE:
All of our trips to Niger have been canceled for the present due to violence between Tuareg rebel groups and government troops. As it has been reported that land mines have been set in parts of the region, it may be some time before we will be able to offer services there. We are very disappointed in this development, both because of our sadness for the added suffering this causes our friends in Niger and because it may be a long while before we will be able to return to one of our favorite places in the world.
For those of you who would like to experience a similar culture and see parts of the Sahara Desert, our trips to Mali offer an experience comparable to Niger.
CLASSIC RWANDA & UGANDA PRIMATE TOUR
TENTATIVE ITINERARY, ACTUAL SCHEDULE & ROUTE MAY VARY
Monthly departures
A 12 day safari which starts in Entebbe and finishes in Kigali. This safari can also be done on a private basis. [The Bwindi gorilla permit is included in the cost but the other gorilla trackings require a supplement to be paid at time of booking.]A safari that traces the western Rift Valley in the heart of Africa, starting with game viewing on the savannah plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park - elephant, lion, buffalo, hippo, and leopard. Track the fast moving and elusive chimpanzees in Kyambura Gorge. In Ishasha go on the hunt for the tree-climbing lions lounging on old fig trees. See the rich wildlife and array of birds on the Kazinga Channel. Seeing some of the last remaining 700 mountain gorillas in the world is a fantastic experience and this safari takes you to three gorilla parks - Bwindi and Mgahinga in Uganda and PNV in Rwanda. It offers an opportunity to track gorillas five times, twice in Bwindi, once in Mgahinga/Nkuringo, and twice in PNV.
Day 1 MONDAY Arrive at Entebbe Airport, probably the friendliest in Africa, welcomed by a Volcanoes guide. Briefing on the great African adventure. Set off on the southbound road at 10am. On the way see the royal drum makers, stand on the Equator, bargain at the roadside markets. Descend to the Queen Elizabeth National Park, keeping an eye out for game. O/N: Mweya/Jacana (FB).
Day 2 TUESDAY Go for an early morning game drive to seek out wildlife, rest during the heat of the day and then go on an evening game drive. The game seen will depend on the season, the Kasenyi plains are good for lion and the Mweya peninsula for a variety of animals. O/N: Mweya/Jacana (FB).
Day 3 WEDNESDAY An excursion to Kyambura gorge nearby to track the fast moving and elusive chimpanzees, one of man's closest relations. The chimp population is quite mobile and viewing is unpredictable but the walk is enchanting. Alternatively go for a nature walk in Maramagambo Forest to see other primates and to visit the bat cave and the blue lake. In the afternoon take a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel where the wildlife and a vast array of birds come to drink. O/N: Mweya/Jacana (FB).
Day 4 THURSDAY Start for Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Either drive via Ishasha, home of the tree climbing lion, roads permitting, or take the alternative route through cultivated expanses. Time permitting, go for a guided nature walk. O/N: Volcanoes Bwindi Lodge (FB).
Day 5 FRIDAY Go gorilla tracking (subject to permit availability at time of booking), walking up steep densely forested hills before finally coming across the gorillas camouflaged in the vegetation. An inspiring moment! Tracking in Bwindi requires stamina and can often take most of the day. Alternatively go for a leisurely nature or community walk. O/N: Volcanoes Bwindi Lodge (FB).
Day 6 SATURDAY Either go gorilla tracking again (on payment of supplement at the time of booking subject to permit availability) or go for a guided nature walk in the thick forest rich in birds, butterflies and monkeys. Alternatively go for a stroll around the Lodge or for a community walk. O/N: Volcanoes Bwindi Lodge (FB).
Day 7 SUNDAYLeave for Mgahinga. Make brief stops at places of interest including Kanaba Gap to view the dramatic Virunga volcanoes and the beautiful terraced hills. Proceed, via the frontier town of Kisoro, up the mountain to Mgahinga at 2,300m. O/N: Volcanoes Mount Gahinga Lodge (FB).
Day 8 MONDAYEither go gorilla tracking again, this time in Mgahinga/Nkuringo (on payment of supplement at time of booking), or climb the Muhavura or Gahinga volcanoes, or go for a nature walk or visit golden monkeys in Mgahinga. O/N: Volcanoes Mount Gahinga Lodge (FB).
Day 9 TUESDAYEither relax or walk near the Lodge, or do one of the activities in day 8 in the morning (except gorilla tracking) and transfer to Rwanda after lunch. [Clocks go backward one hour]. Stroll around the Lodge, or simply take in the panoramic sunset over the volcanoes. O/N: Volcanoes Virunga Lodge (FB).
Day 10 WEDNESDAYGo gorilla tracking in Parc National des Volcans (on payment of supplement at time of booking). Tracking gorillas through the light mountain forest on the slopes of the Virungas is a magical experience. If you are lucky you can get to the gorillas, spend an hour with them, and be back at the base in time for a late lunch! Some gorilla families however are more elusive, and tracking can take a full day, especially when it is wet and muddy. O/N: Volcanoes Virunga Lodge (FB).
Day 11 THURSDAY Either go gorilla tracking again in Parc National des Volcans (on payment of supplement at time of booking), or visit the golden monkeys or drive to Gisenyi, visit Ross Carr's orphanage and Lake Kivu or climb the Visoke/Muhavura volcanoes, or trek to Dian Fossey's grave, or visit the local school, community projects or walk to Lake Bulera. O/N: Volcanoes Virunga Lodge (FB).
Day 12 FRIDAY Leave for Kigali. Time permitting, go for a tour of the city including a visit to the market, a pottery project, handicraft shops, the Franco-Rwandan cultural centre and the genocide memorial. Transfer to the airport. (HB).
Bwindi in Uganda has four habituated families and the gorillas there live in thicker tropical forest and tracking is more challenging as the hillsides are steeper. You can also go for nature walks to see birds, monkeys and orchids. Mgahinga, in Uganda, is a great place to appreciate the unique Virunga volcanoes and it has one habituated family. When this group sometimes moves across the border, tracking at Nkuringo in Southern Bwindi is possible. You can also climb a volcano or go for a nature walk, visit the endangered golden monkey or go birding. PNV in Rwanda has five habituated gorilla families and tracking most groups in the afro-montane forest usually takes only a few hours. You can also climb a volcano, visit the remains of Dian Fossey's grave or visit the endangered golden monkey. At the end of the safari fly out from Kigali.
Clients stay 3 nights at Mweya/Jacana, 3 nights at Volcanoes Bwindi Lodge, 2 nights at Volcanoes Mount Gahinga Lodge and 3 nights at Volcanoes Virunga Lodge.
A choice of two safaris can be added at the end - Primates and Birds in Nyungwe Forest (4 days), Wildlife and Birds in Akagera (3 days).
COST: US $5273 per person, sharing a twin room
Single room supplement $559
NOTES:
1. Prices are valid until 31 December 2007 unless unforeseen circumstances require them to be changed. Prices for 2008 will be published at a later date.
2. Prices are based on exchange rates with the US Dollar in April 2007. Changes in exchange rates may result in changes in trip prices up to 1 month preceeding departure date.
3. Classic Uganda and Rwanda starts in Kampala on Monday and finishes on the following Friday in Kigali.
4. Gorilla permit prices are subject to change without notice.
Testamonial:
We had a GREAT time. We had incredible gorilla viewing--also yellow tailed monkeys, tree lions, elephants, warthogs, a hippo in our back yard and more.
We did have a WONDERFUL trip both in Africa and in the Cotswalds. Thank you for your help in connecting us with such a wonderful experience.
Sue Brickey
Rwanda/Uganda - July, 2007
PEOPLES OF NORTHERN CAMEROON
TENTATIVE ITINERARY, ACTUAL SCHEDULE & ROUTE MAY VARY
14 days - Jan. 27-Feb. 8, 2008 (tentative dates)
The far north of Cameroon, or “Le Grande Nord,” as the local folks say, is a fascinating and little-known corner of West Africa. Although mentioned in several guidebooks, this area has remained relatively unknown by tourists, especially Americans. Colorful village markets, starkly beautiful landscapes, proud yet warm and friendly people, and a fascinating local culture and history, make this trip one of our best! Waza Park is known as the best big-game park in West Africa, boasting most of the big game species for which East Africa is known, but receiving far fewer visitors. This makes for a much more relaxed, and one of a kind quality experience! However, please be aware that the tourist infrastructure for northern Cameroon is not well developed so accommodations are nice, but basic and some of the roads are in very poor condition.
Day 1 - 2 § US to Douala - Jan. 26-27
Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to the Jet Hotel. Orientation session and then enjoy your first dinner at the hotel. If you wish to refresh yourself after a very long flight, treat yourself to a swim in the pool. Douala is located in the middle of Cameroon's Atlantic coast, a few kilometers inland on the southern shore of the Wouri River (D)
Day 3 § Douala/Yaoundé/night train to Ngaoundéré - Jan. 28
Travel to Yaoundé (picnic lunch), visit Mfou National Park and CWAF's gorilla and chimp rehabilitation project near Yaoundé; then board the night train for Ngaoundéré (B,L,D,)
Note: You will be traveling first class on the night train, in the best available accommodations. That said, conditions will not be as comfortable as one might expect for first class. You will share a two or four-bunk sleeper. We will try to get you a two-bunk, but there is no guarantee. Bathrooms are also shared.
Day 4 § Ngaoundéré/Ngaoundaba Ranch - Jan. 29
Arrive in the early morning in Ngaoundére where we'll be met by our drivers in 4X4 vehicles and sped off to the beautiful Ngaoundaba Ranch. Relax, swim in the nearby crater lake, or hike around the premises. Enjoy the friendly ambiance and beautiful views, as well as the great food and service! Lounge around the fireplace, share thoughts on the trip so far, and discuss upcoming days.
Day 5 § Ngaoundaba Ranch/Maroua - Jan. 30
Enjoy an early morning walk around the lake, then breakfast and departure for Maroua. We'll stop along the way in Ngaoundéré, where we'll visit the Lamido (Moslem chief) of the region and his beautiful palace. We'll also have lunch in Ngaoundéré and then continue on to Maroua. Night at Relais Porte Mayo. (B,L,D)
Day 6 § Maroua/ Maga-Pouss/Waza Park - Jan. 31
Early morning departure for Pouss, where we'll visit the market and the museum featuring the traditional huts of the Obus and their customs. Lunch at the Safari ? in Maga and visit the Muzugum fisherman's port on the Logone River. On to the Park National de Waza. Enjoy an evening drive to view wildlife, with the possibility of seeing giraffes, elephants, hippos, lions, sable antelope, warthogs, baboons, monkeys, and many bird species. March thru October is the absolute best time for wildlife viewing, but we still stand a good chance of seeing wildlife during our visit. Overnight at the Waza Campement, with its comfortable boukarous and good food. (B,L,D)
Day 7 § Waza Park/Oudjila/Mokolo - Feb. 1
Enjoy an early morning wildlife tour of the Park, then depart for the Podoko of D'Oudjila, whose animist chief has 40 wives and more than 150 children. Visit his house to learn more about animist beliefs and customs. Continuing onward you'll arrive in Mokolo, the center of the Mafa people. Wednesday is the big market day for the Mafa people of the Mokolo area. They come down from their mountain villages to sell their local craft and produce (millet, peanuts, beans, traditional oil), and also to buy provisions to take back to the mountains (soap, salt, matches, fish, etc.). Overnight at the Campement Flamboyant Hotel, the most comfortable in town just off the main road in the center of town. Traditional Cameroonian food for dinner! (B,L,D)
Day 8 § Mokolo/Tourou/Rhumsiki- Feb. 2
Depart in the early morning for the Thursday market in Tourou, where the Hide and Gre wear calabash hats, reminding one of soldiers with their helmets. These hats contain markings which provide information such as whether the woman is married and whether she has children. This is a typical traditional small market of northern Cameroon, with a beautiful view over the savannah to Nigeria. Continue on to Rhumsiki, with its moonscape terrain of ancient volcanic "needles", and the home of the Margui or Kapsiki people. Overnight at the Campement of Rhumsiki, one of the more upscale places with nice views and comfortable air-conditioned boukarous. Keep in mind that air conditioning and electricity may not always work in Cameroon. (B,L,D)
Day 9 § Rhumsiki/Gamba - Feb. 3
After breakfast, you'll go trekking in the Mandara Mountains. Approximately 5 hours of hiking will bring you to Gamba. Here you will pass by the villages of Gova and Kila, in the heart of Kirdi country. The Kirdi are known to be staunchly animist, refusing to be "islamized" by Moslem immigrants. Spend the night in Gamba with families in traditional Margui huts. There is no electricity, bath is by bucket, no modern toilet, and sleeping is on a grass mat or sleeping pad (if you bring one). If you do not wish to do the trek, you may opt to stay in Rhuminsiki. Optional activities for those who choose to stay in Rhumsiki are seeing traditional pottery demonstrations, visiting a local school, traditional bronze working in the village of Amsa, or visiting the small village market at Mogode where the Lamidat de Kapsiki (traditional regional chief of the Kapsiki region) resides (B,L,D)
Day 10 § Rhumsiki/Garoua - Feb. 4
Depart for Garoua, passing through numerous villages which have changed little over the last centuries. Rest stop at the dam at Dzahoura, where you'll have a beautiful view across the border into Nigeria. Special surprise lunch! Overnight in Garoua at the Relais St. Hubert. (B,L,D)
Day 11 § Garoua/Ngaoundaba Ranch - Feb. 5
Travel to Ngaoundaba Ranch, with stop in Ngaoundéré for lunch. Relax in comfort again at the Ranch and have the opportunity for an afternoon swim &/or hike. (B,L,D)
Day 12 § Ngaoundaba/night train - Feb. 6
Morning walk, swim, boat ride, or just relax on the veranda. Good chance that monkeys will pay you a visit! Afternoon departure for Ngaoundéré and the night train to Yaoundé. (B,L)
Day 13 § Night train/Yaoundé/Kribi - Feb. 7
Arrive in Yaoundé in the early morning; leisurely breakfast and then off to Kribi, a beautiful seaside village. Installation at Jully Hotel, lunch at hotel, then relax on the beach for the pm. Dinner & night at Jully Hotel (B,L,D)
Day 14 § Kribi/Douala/Departure - Feb. 8
Options of just relaxing or heading down the coast to visit a Pygmy village and have a fresh seafood lunch on the beach; then its back in the car for the drive to Douala and the airport for your flight home.
Cost: $4500 per person, double accomodation; single supplement $250
(Minimum of 6 people required; DreamWeaver owner Dudley Parkinson will co-lead this trip, along with Cameroonian friend and collaborator, Laurent ZRA)
Includes meals as indicated (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner), all lodging and transportation, guides, mineral water, park fees
Does not include international airfare, passport and visa fees, travel insurance, alcoholic and soft beverages, tips, and personal purchases.
Note: Please be aware that this trip is rugged in that accommodations are basic, though clean and charming, in outlying areas. Don't count on having hot water or electricity daily. Roads are very, very rough and some days may involve a lot of driving. Choose this trip only if you wish a very unique cultural exprience and are willing to put up with some inconveniences.
Testamonials:
CAMEROON, 2001:
Dear Dudley,
Our trip to Cameroon was superb! Laurent's management skills are remarkable in an environment where everything is subject to change or breakdown or delay. He was organized and thorough in making realistic arrangements that usually worked out, and was quick to come up with alternative plans on the few occasions when something unforseen occurred.
We did stay overnight with the Manfo family near Dschang, and consider it to be one of the best parts of our trip to Cameroon. They welcomed us warmly, tried hard to make us comfortable, gave us a tour of the village, and prepared a feast to share with us and the many neighbors and relatives who came to greet us.
Waza Park was another highlight of our time in Cameroon. Given the season, we had limited expectations for viewing big animals, but hoped to at least see two or three. Instead, we saw several groups of giraffe, some warthogs, domilesque, and after 2 hours of cross-country tracking, caught up to a herd of over 200 elephants! Our video of the elephants is breathtaking.
South of Bandjoun, we stopped at the compound of the chief of the region (a spur-of-the-moment choice by Laurent), and it happened to be the day that the massive straw roof of the assembly hall was being replaced, an event that most members of the community would witness only once or possibly twice in their lifetime. Meeting the king and visiting the museum were background events to the thrill of watching teams of men hoist bundles of straw to the heights of the roof and work them into place, and hearing them burst into deep cadances of song echoing between the men on the roof and those on the ground.
.... you and Laurent did a great job of planning according to the information I shared with you about our interests in nature and culture. We are happy to recommend DreamWeaver to anyone wanting to travel to West Africa, and we hope you will stay in touch and let us know how your business is developing.
Thanks again, and all best,
Nancy Fleisher
Nashville, TN
USA
CAMEROON, 2000:
Dear DreamWeaver Travel,
"I am highly impressed by Laurent's professionalism and thoroughness in organising every aspect of my travel in Cameroon so efficiently. He had thought of and planned for every aspect of my visit extremely well. I rate Laurent right up there among the very best tour leaders I have spent time with on trips I have made to East and southern Africa, and I recommend him highly to any other prospective visitor to Cameroon.
To be honest, I was slightly concerned myself that when I arrived in Douala things might not work out quite as planned - as you say, one never knows in Africa - but Laurent was there to meet me on schedule and he facilitated all of the arrangements to make my trip a truly memorable one. I was truly impressed at how he had thought of everything. ------------------------------------------
Best regards, Rod
Dr. Rod East
Deputy Chief Executive (Operations)
NIWA (National Institute of Water & Atmospheric Research)
Hamilton, New Zealand
CAMEROON - RAINFOREST ADVENTURE
Often referred to as "Africa in miniature," Cameroon is one of the most diverse countries in Africa, hosting a myriad of ethnic and language groups, truly varied climatic and geographical conditions, and fascinating traditional culture and history.
From the Sahara to the equatorial grasslands to the highest mountain in West Africa, Cameroon is also full of wonderful, welcoming people. What often sets Cameroonians apart from even other Africans is their zest for life and their open curiosity regarding people from other parts of the world.
Among the least known groups in Africa are the Pygmies, who live in the remaining areas of equatorial rainforest and many of whom still retain their traditional lifestyle despite encroaching roads and logging operations. There is still a vast area of Eastern Cameroon where Pygmies and forest elephant, chimpanzees and gorillas, orchids and hundred-foot mahogany trees all live in a symbiotic harmony.
"Large hornbills are almost everywhere, resplendent great plantain eaters perch within a short distance, and a rich and varied cast of monkeys hesitate between curiosity and caution. But the elusive western lowland gorillas keep out of our way, taking advantage of the dense vegetation. Their droppings now and then indicate a popular route, and a circular space with flattened vegetation is a silent allusion to the massive size of a silverback male.
Together with Boumba Bek, this proposed rainforest reserve may be one of the best preserved parts of the Congo-Basin - Africa's largest rainforest. WWF is collaborating with the Cameroon government to keep it that way.
The south-eastern part of Cameroon, close to the Central African Republic, the Congo and Gabon, has a third proposed reserve: Lobeke. Still rich in wildlife, it is an example of the dangers that Nki and Boumba Bek may be facing: human activity that has gone out of control. Logging and poaching go hand in hand here, disturbing the lives of Baka pygmies, other traditional local groups and wildlife.
There is goodwill to get this protected area project to do what we want it to do. We can then develop a major ecotourist initiative which would also provide local people with alternatives to the bush meat and forest industries. We have an excellent chance of success...."
from WWF's Forests for Life website www.panda.org/forests4life/At the beginning and end of this trip there is time set aside to relax - at the beach , wandering around a quaint seaside village, or shopping for West African handicrafts.
Itinerary
- Day 1 - Douala-Limbe: Arrive Douala; welcome and travel to Limbe; Hotel Miramane. Limbe is a beautiful, English-speaking village on the beach, about 80 kilometers from Douala. Dinner and one night.
- Day 2 - Limbe: Relaxing day in Limbe, exploring, resting, and preparing for trip; visit Limbe Wildlife Center
- Day 3 - Limbe-Kumba-Mundemba: Early morning breakfast, then visit to Limbe Botanical Gardens, pass by recent volcanic deposits from eruptions of Mt. Cameroon last March 28. On to Buea, at the base of Mt. Cameroon, passing by coffee, banana, rubber, and pineapple plantations. Lunch in Kumba and on to Mundemba, dinner and one night at Hotel Yassa.
- Day 4 - Mundemba-Korup National Park: Breakfast; leave for Korup, wildlife and vegetation tour; Picnic lunch; local English-speaking guide/naturalist accompanies Korup tour, the length of which depends on your preference. Dinner and one night in Park in huts built and maintained by WWF.
- Day 5 - Korup National Park-Mundemba-Douala: Breakfast; travel to Douala, dinner and one night at Hotel Fatime in Douala
- Day 6 - Douala-Yaounde-Bertoua (very long day!): Early morning breakfast; lunch in Yaounde; dinner and one night at Hotel Mansa in Bertoua.
- Day 7 - Bertoua-Yokadouma: Breakfast in Bertoua; picnic lunch on the way; dinner and one night at Hotel Yokadouma
- Day 8-13 - Camping in Pygmy (Baka) village(s); tours of forest environment; search for plant and animal life of equatorial rain forest
- Day 14 - Yokadouma-Bertoua: Breakfast; picnic lunch on the way; dinner and one night at Hotel Mansa in Bertoua; possible exhibition of local traditional dance (Beti Bikoutsi dance)
- Day 15 - Bertoua-Yaounde: Breakfast; picnic lunch en route; dinner
and one night at Hotel des Deputes
Note: from this point on, transportation will be by public transport: bus, bush taxi, and city taxies. - Day 16 - Yaounde-Kribi: Breakfast; drive to Kribi; lunch at Hotel Framotel; BEACH!!
- Day 17 - Kribi: Visit Lobe Falls; motor pirogue ride on Lobe River to visit Bagyeli Pygmy camp. Duration of stay depends on your preference. BEACH!!
- Day 18 - Kribi-Douala: Morning beachin'; travel to Douala; craft shopping
in Douala; airport for departure
Cost: $3350 per person; includes transportation; guide; park fees; all road tolls and taxes; hotels; camping; all breakfasts, lunches, and dinners; mineral water; pirogue ride in Kribi
Not included: international airfare, travel insurance, passport and visa fees, soft drinks or alcohol; tips; entry to Limbe Wildlife Center and Botanical Gardens; souvenirs and gifts
Preferred Season - November through March
Please contact us for custom-designed adventures!
TESTAMONIAL:
CAMEROON, 1999:
Dear Dudley,
I've been very pleased with DreamWeaver Travel's service and would highly recommend it to other Africa bound travelers. Dudley Parkinson took a personal interest in helping me accomplish my travel plans and did his utmost to make my trip a safe and memorable adventure. His attention to detail made it possible for me to experience much of the beauty and wonder of Cameroon.
best regards,
Greg
Greg Culp
California
USA
DISCOVER GABON
Hosting some of Africa's least exploited rain forests and coastal sanctuaries, conservationists regard Gabon as one of the last pockets of wilderness in Africa. Michael Fay, a research scientist with the Wildlife Conservation Society and the National Geographic Society, walked from the eastern edge of Congo to the western edge of Gabon during 1999 and 2000 -- a 456-day trip past a stunning range of animals and animal habitats. After he finished this epic "megatransect," he had this to say: "Blue seas, white sand, elephants, whales, sea turtles, monkeys, bush pigs, unbelievable scenery," he said, "Gabon has it all. It has everything that everyone ever dreams about in paradise, as far as I'm concerned." In September 2002, Gabon's President, El Hadj Omar Bongo, partly as a result of Fay's eye-opening journey, announced the creation of 13 new national parks in the mostly forest-covered country. These parks cover three million hectares, which represents 10 percent of Gabon's total surface area. As a percentage of total land mass, this will be the largest park system in the world. Now DreamWeaver Travel is offering tours to three of these national parks: Lopé, Ivindo, and Loango. The variety of wildlife is amazing and includes gorillas and mandrills, hippos and elephants, and a huge diversity of rainforest birds, insects and plants. This is truly one of the "last pockets of wilderness in Africa!"
Day 1- Friday: Meet/Assistance at the airport and transfer to hotel Tropicana. Day-use room and breakfast. Evening transfer to the train station for a departure at 21hr30, arrival 02hr00, transfer to Lopé hotel.
Day 2 - Saturday: Morning safari by 4 wheel drive car in the savannas looking for elephants, buffalos, red river hogs, antelopes such as sitatunga or yellow back duiker.
In the afternoon, walk in the forest looking for footprints of animals, following the tracks of primates and others species.
Day 3 - Sunday: Morning safari by dugout canoe on the Ogooué River and visit of the site of ancient rock engravings. In the afternoon safari by 4 wheels drive car into the forest galleries.
Day 4 - Monday: Morning walk into the forest and relaxing afternoon at the swimming pool.
Day 5 - Tuesday: Last safari in the morning into the savannas by 4 wheel drive car.
Departure by train to Moanda (14h00/17h00). Transfer to Lekedi Park in Bakoumba .Situated south of Moanda and Franceville, Parc de la Lékédi is the successful result of an astonishing conversion project. Bakoumba the place with the longest mono-cable way in the world (76km) became in some years a "nature" town. On 14.000ha has been set up: fish culture, breading of wild animals, ecotourism, mushroom production, roof tiles, pottery, weaving of raffia. Platforms for observation of the animals, the ties of the railway used as fence posts, and most spectacular, a 30m high bridge of 360m long overlooking the canopy where a colony of mandrills is living. On a small island on the lake, a program to reinsert chimpanzees has been set up and can be visited.
Day 6 - Wednesday: Visit the different areas of Lékédi Park, especially a walkway over the canopy allowing the observation of mandrills and chimps.
Day 7 - Thursday: In the morning visit of the park and after lunch, excursion to the liana bridge and the waterfalls of Poubara – Then transfer to the airport for your flight to Libreville. Meet and transfer to the Tropicana hotel.
Day 8 - Friday: Transfer to the airport for a flight to Omboué at 07h00. Transfer by boat on the Fernand Vaz lagoon to Petit Evengue Island.
Visit of the island and discovery of the forest, savannas, and lagoon and meet the researchers in charge of the re-insertion of a gorilla family, easy to observe. Night in Petit Evengue.
During the night in Petit Evengue you can hear an incredible concert of different animals.
Day 9 - Saturday: Visit of Mission St Anne of the Fernand Vaz. You will see the special iron church made by Gustave Eiffel (The Tour Eiffel Creator) , then you will cross the lagoon to reach the coast . Picnic on the wild beaches and drive by 4 wheel drive car to Loango Lodge – Overnight.
Day 10 - Sunday: Safari in the Loango NP looking for elephants, buffalos, antelopes, hippopotamus, monkeys and birds.
Day 11 - Monday: Transfer to Omboué and flight back to Libreville. End of the afternoon, transfer to the airport for your international flightHotels, lodges and camps:
TROPICANA : is a simple and small hotel located on the beach and not far from the airport.
Rooms with shower/toilets and air conditioning , good restaurant.
LOPE HOTEL : Charming place on the banks of the river with wooden bungalows and swimming pool . Comfortable rooms with shower / toilet and air conditioning..
LEKEDI PARK : Simple rooms with shower/toilets, airco, restaurant, tennis, swimming pool
LOANGO LODGE : Recently rebuilt, this comfortable and charming lodge offers 10 bungalows with toilets and shower, hot water, air conditioning. Meals served in the lagoon restaurant.Price : we are currently working with a new local partner for Gabon and are revising our itineraries. Very soon we'll have the new itineraries, with prices up on our website. For the latest information, please contact us at dudley@dreamweavertravel.net .
Price includes :
All transfers, transports, domestic flights, accommodation, meals (except in Libreville and in the train), excursions, guides in the park an entry fees.
Does not include : international airfare, passport and visa fees, travel insurance (required), soft and alcoholic beverages, personal purchases, or airport departure fees.
Prices are valid at the time of this posting. Any change of costs of carriers, hotels and lodges or due to changes in the currency exchange rate will be added or subtracted as long as the total fee for the trip has not been received.
TESTAMONIAL:
GABON
I had a great time and everything went extremely well. Gaston was very friendly and helpful. I was given vouchers, plane and train tickets and a train timetable with all my trips highlighted; the latter proving to be very useful.
Everywhere I was supposed to be met I was met and people were generally very friendly and helpful. The accommodation and food were very good in all locations and, considering I was the only guest in most places I stayed, the hospitality was extraordinary. I was taken out every day with, normally, two guides and activities were very much my choice, even in Loango, where I had 3 days but only one and a half days of activities booked, I went out every day without additional cost; including a trip to the Akaka camp which is a day trip and definitely worth it. I saw a lot of elephants and variety primates including a large troup(?) of gorillas at Langouie Bai and a lone gorilla in the forest at Mikongo.
Although Lekedi was a long way to go (very few people I met along the way had heard of it) and the game park itself is a little odd; most of the animals are south african, it was worth the effort to see the mandrills and for the train journey back. I did not see mandrills anywhere else and the 11-hour daytime train journey traversed some beautiful countryside. I thoroughly enjoyed my train journeys, and would recommend travel by train. The trains were comfortable, comparable with Australian standards, and I only had one train that was significantly, more than one hour, late. Now I just have to save for another trip. Many thanks for all your help. Cath
Catherine Sanders
Mali - June/July, 2007
MALI
FESTIVAL IN THE DESERT 2009
Jan. 3-16 (tentative dates)
Although the centerpoint of this trip is the Festival in the Desert in Essakane, the itinerary also includes more well-known Mali attractions such as Dogon country, Djenne, and Timbuctu. Billed as the "most remote music festival in the world" the Festival is a three-day Afro-pop powwow held by the Tuareg, the traditionally nomadic "blue people" of the Sahara. It's a tribe often feared for the banditry of its rebels and respected for the fact that it has never really been conquered. Combining traditional Tuareg music and dance, camel races, and competitions during the day, the Festival comes alive at night with modern Malian music, which is becoming popular the world over from incorporation into music as diverse as that of Robert Plant and Paul Simon. This is truly a one-of-a-kind experience!
Itinerary
Day 1, Jan. 3, 2007, Monday BAMAKO
Arrival in BKO. Met by your english speaking guide and transfer to Hotel Rabelais. Overnight on BB basis (Nice hotel placed near the Central Market. Rooms with a/c, private toilet. Swimming pool.)
Day 2, Jan. 4BAMAKO-SEGOU (235 kms, paved road)
After breakfast, discover Bamako, the Capital City of Mali. City tour: we drive along the river looking at the old and new buildings, across the crowded central market, we pass in the administrative area rich in colonial buildings. Then from the top of the hill we enjoy a full landscape of this Sahelian metropolis. Visit a community of blacksmiths - they are able to turn almost anything into…. something else!! Visit the National Museum of Mali. Lunch in restaurant. Afternoon drive to Segou. Overnight on HB basis at Hotel Auberge. (The best hotel in Segou. Rooms with a/c, private toilet. Very nice garden with swimming pool. Excellent food).
Day 3, Jan. 5 SEGOU-DJENNE (339 kms, paved road)
After breakfast, visit the town of Segou. Walk along the river, visit the colonial area, the catholic area, try some of the traditional "dolo" (millet beer). Visit the old town "Segoukoro", the ancient capital of the Bambara kingdom. Drive to San. Lunch in restaurant. In San we are invited to attend a Bobo dance, very amazing - and you'll feel right at home!! Continue to Djenné with arrival in the evening. Overnight on HB basis at Campement Hotel Djenné. (Hotel Campement Djenné is built with local materials. Very basic. Rooms with fan and private toilet.)
Day 4, Jan. 6 DJENNE-MOPTI-SEVARE (143 kms, paved road)
After breakfast, a good half day city-tour in Djenné with a local guide. We will see the Mosque and the different architectural styles in the village. We can also have a look to the small but interesting museum and to the ancient site of Djenné-Djenno. Lunch in restaurant. In the afternoon we continue to Mopti where we can have a short walk along the river at the sunset. Back to Sevare. Overnight on HB basis at Ambedjele Hotel. (Very nice hotel, in Dogon style. Room with a/c and private toilet. Nice garden with swimming pool. Very good food!!)
Day 5, Jan. 7 SEVARE-MOPTI-KONNA-SEVARE (84 kms, paved road)
Early in the morning, breakfast and transfer to Mopti where a pinasse (traditional covered boat) is waiting for a full-day boat excursion. Visit of Fulani and Bozo (fishermen) villages. Lunch will be served in the boat. Once in Konna, transfer back by car. Overnight on HB basis at Hotel Ambedjele.
Day 6, Jan. 8 SEVARE-SANGHA (77 kms of paved road, 45 kms by dirt road)
After breakfast we move to the Bandiagara Dogon Cliff. Visit 2 villages of the "plateau". Nice walks, not difficult. Lunch in restaurant in Bandiagara. Visit of the village and the sacred cave of Songho. Continue to Sangha. Overnight on HB basis at the Campement Hotel La Guinna. (Very basic Hotel. The only one in Sangha. Rooms with fan and private toilet).
Day 7, Jan. 9 SANGHA - TIRELI - KOUNDOU (40 kms by dirt road)
After breakfast we meet our Dogon local guide and some porters who will lead us down the cliff in an unforgettable half-day trekking and visiting Dogon villages (Banani-Ireli-Tireli). The walk is not very difficult. You need very comfortable walking shoes, hat and sunscreen. Whoever doesn't feel like walking may stay with the car. A trail/road connects all of these villages. The meeting point is in the garden of the traditional chief for lunch (picnic). In the afternoon, we are invited to attend a Dogon mask dance. Drive to Koundou to the opposite side of the cliff. We set our tents up in the Campement de l'Amitié Dogon. Dinner and overnight in tents. (The Campement has a very nice garden where you can install your tent. Toilet facilities are available. Food will be provided by the campement).
Day 8, Jan. 10 KOUNDOU - DOGON of THE PLAINS (60 kms by dirt road)
Early in the morning, breakfast and trek to the 3 youga's villages (difficult, no way to visit by cars). The most sacred among the Dogon villages. We come back to the campement for lunch. Then by car we continue to discover the Dogon villages of the plain. We drive back to Koundou. Overnight on HB basis in tents.
Day 9, Jan. 11 KOUNDOU - DOUENTZA (250 kms dirt road)
Morning breakfast and half-day drive to Douentza. Picnic lunch. Afternoon visit of the Gandamia Mountains. Short walk, not difficult. Drive back to Douentza. Overnight on HB basis in tents at the Campemant Gourma. (The Campement has a very nice garden where you can install your tent. Toilet facilities are available. Food will be provided by the campement).
Day 10, Jan. 12 DOUENTZA - TIMBUKTU (200 kms truck)
After breakfast we drive to Timbuktu. Arrival and lunch at the restaurant of the Hotel. In the afternoon we enjoy a city tour with a Tuareg guide. We will visit the 3 most important mosques, a Koranic school, houses of the first explorers.and a handicraft market. Overnight on HB basis at Hotel Azalai (Quite old and very basic but one of the best in town. Rooms with a/c and private toilet)
Day 11, Jan. 13 TIMBUKTU-ESSAKANE (80 kms of dirt road)
After breakfast we drive into the desert until we reach the Essakane festival. Each day you're at the festival, you can enjoy 2 different sorts of activities : traditional and scenic. The traditional ones start in the morning and go all day: camel rides, parades, tindés (traditional songs and dances), expositions, discussions and several different games. The scenic ones start when night falls: concerts and animations (skits or plays). FB basis camping on the dunes of the Sahara. The cars will be at your disposal in case of need. (Mobile camp, no toilet facilities)
Day 12, Jan. 14 ESSAKANE
Another full-day at the festival. FB basis camping on the dunes of the Sahara. The cars will be at your disposal in case of need.
Day 13, Jan. 15 ESSAKANE-TIMBUKTU (80 kms dirt road)
Half day in Essakane. Picnic lunch and transfer to Timbuktu. After the shower we will be invited to the house of our guide for the last dinner!! Overnight on BB basis at Hotel Azalai.
Day 14, Jan. 16 TIMBUKTU-BAMAKO (3 hour flight)
In the morning, transfer to the airport and MAE domestic flight to Bamako. Transfer in town. Rooms available at the Hotel Rabelais. Car at your disposal. No meals Transfer to the airport and end of services.
Price per person in dbl with a Group of 2-3 pax US $5050
Group of 4 people US $4575 (or $4900 if American co-leader accompanies group)
Group of 5-6 people US $4455 (or $4750 if American co-leader accompanies group)
With American co-leader accompanying:
Group of 7 people US $4175
Group of 8-9-10 $3750
Group of 11-12 $3650
More then 12 $3045
Guide: English speaking guide with deep knowledge of people and places. Local guides as mentioned in the program, in Djenné, Dogon cliff, Douentza and Timbuktu and Essakane.
Transportation:
Group of 4 people - Toyota LC 4x4 with a/c for the whole trip.
Group of 5-6-7-8 - Minibus Toyota Hi Ace with a/c from BKO to Mopti (day 5) Toyota LC 4x4 with a/c for the rest of the trip (from day 6)
Group of 9-10-11-12 - Bus Mercedes with a/c from BKO to Mopti
Toyota LC 4x4 with a/c for the rest of the trip (from day 6)
Over 12 persons- Coach 23-30 seat with a/c; Toyota LC 4x4 with a/c for the rest of the trip (from day 6) Minibus non a/c for the last day in Bamako. We use 4x4 with a max of 4 clients per car.
Meals: Full board basis treatment from the breakfast of day 2 to the breakfast of day 14
Meals as stated in the program. French and international cuisine sometimes mixed with local dishes in the restaurants and hotels. In the desert the meals will be provided by our own professional cook.
Domestic flight: A MAE domestic flight Timbuktu-Bamako is included in the rate with apt taxes.
Accommodation: Accordingly with the program or in similar in case of no vacancies during the bookings. Igloo tents in every camp. Tents and mattresses will be provided by the agency The price includes all the visits as stated in the program The price doesn't include other different flights and apt tax, drinks, tips and services or visits not mentioned in the program.
Mali single entry visa is required
Yellow fever vaccination is required
Malaria prophylaxis is strongly recommended
The weather will be dry and hot during the day and cool in the night, in particular in the desert. We suggest bringing a warm sleeping bag and some warm clothes for your stay in the desert. Don't forget a flashlight, hat, sunscreen, comfortable clothes and walking shoes, and a water bottle.
LIBYA - CRADLE OF CIVILIZATION TOUR
TENTATIVE ITINERARY, ACTUAL SCHEDULE & ROUTE MAY VARY
15 Days -
Cross the grand Sahara from Ghadames to Ghat, explore the stunning scenery of the Tadarart Acacus and the Wadi Mathendous, traverse the giant dunes of the Ubari Sand Sea and explore the beautiful Sahara Lakes. With visits to the magnificent Roman cities of Leptis Magna , Sabratha and the capital Tripoli and the fascinating centuries - old grain store of Nalut, this trip is an unforgettable journey into the past.
Itinerary:
Tripoli - Sabrata - Nalut - Ghadames - Ghat - Acacus - Murzuk Sand Sea -Wadi Mathendoush - Germa - Ubari Sand Sea - Desert Lakes - Sabha - Gharyan - Leptis Magna - Tripoli
Breakfast, lunch and dinner included throughout.
Accommodation in 5-4-3 star hotels and camping.
Transportation: A/C mini buses model 2000 and 4wd vehicles model 86-88.
Detailed program:
Day 1 : Europe - Tripoli In Tripoli, you'll be met by your guide on arrival at the airport and transfer to Bab al-Bahr Hotel overlooking the Mediterranean and the medina or similar for 2 nights.
Day 2 : Tripoli - Sabratha. Tripoli 73 km. Morning sightseeing in Tripoli, capital city of Libya, including a visit to the National Museum, Green Square, Arch of Marcus Aurelius , the mosques and traditional souks of the old town. In the afternoon, excursion to the magnificent Roman site of Sabratha with its marvelous Colonnaded Theatre, public lavatories with fine sculptures of naked goddesses!. Late evening drive back to Tripoli. Dinner / Over-night at your hotel .
Day 3 : Tripoli - Nalut - Ghadames 630 km. Visit the centuries-old grain store of Qasr al-Haj and the hill-top grain store/citadel of Nalut. Continue to Ghadames for two nights.
Day 4 : Full Day Ghadames Sightseeing in the enchanting oasis town of Ghadames with its labyrinthine passages and unique architecture and a visit to the cultural museum. Late afternoon excursion to see the sun set over the sand dunes. Dinner will be taken in a richly decorated traditional house.
Days 5/6/7 : Ghadames - GHAT - Travel over the endless dunes of the desert, with accommodation in "hotels of 1,000,000 stars" (camping!)!
Days 8/9/10 Acacus - Exploration of the magnificent Acacus with its spectacular scenery and millennia-old rock art. and the fringes of the immense Murzuk Sand Sea. With a visit to Barjuj Agriculture Project Wild camping among the dunes.
Day 11 : Barjuj - Machandoush - Germa - Gaberoun Lake - Visit the pre-historic engravings of Wadi Mathendous, then continue exploration of the huge sand dunes of the Ubari Sand Sea with a visit to the Sahara's magnificent Lakes. Time to rest and enjoy a cooling swim at Lake Gabroun. Wild camping among the dunes.
Day 12 : Gabroun lake - Um-Alma Lake - Sabha. Visit the Lakes. After lunch we drive to Germa, visit the museum and the remains of the ancient Germantian warrior civilization. Drive towards Sabha. Dinner/over-night at your hotel.
Day 13 : Sabha - Gheryan 1025 km. Full day's drive north to Gheryan with a stop at Kabaw to visit its fascinating centuries-old grain store.
Day 14 : Gheryan - Leptis Magna - Tripoli 145 km. Excursion to the magnificent Roman city of Leptis Magna. Continue to Tripoli. Dinner/over-night at your hotel..
Day 15 : At leisure until transfer to airport for flight home
COST: $